Something magical happens in the summer in Philadelphia. As the temperatures rise, streets transform into communal party spaces, parks become urban oases and the city’s cultural venues roar to life.
This summer, blockbuster events like The Roots Picnic at The Mann Center, the Made in America Festival on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Pride 365 all return, drawing thousands of residents and visitors to enjoy massive, only-in-Philly experiences.
Music fills the air with shows by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran and Drake, along with larger-than-life performances by the Philadelphia Orchestra and Opera Philadelphia.
At the center of it all, the Wawa Welcome America celebration features 16 days of events — from Juneteenth to the Fourth of July — celebrating freedom to liberty in the birthplace of American democracy.
Looking for something more low-key? Philly offers relaxing summer fun all season long at Parks on Tap, the Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest and Spruce Street Harbor Park.
And, of course, the world premiere of Disney100: The Exhibition continues at The Franklin Institute.
Simply put: Philly and summer go together like wiz and steak. So, get ready for a magical home run-hitting, beer-sipping, freedom-loving, dance-filled summer in Philadelphia.
Stay tuned for more summer event announcements. And an important note: Details — including event dates — can change at any time. Always check ahead with event organizers and/or on official event sites to confirm event dates and times.
Read on for our guide to the biggest events and best things to do in Philadelphia and the Countryside in summer 2023.
Note: Events in this article are arranged in chronologically by section.
